Memecoins are a type of cryptocurrency that began as a satirical commentary on the crypto industry with the creation of Dogecoin but have since evolved into a significant market segment. They are characterized by their playful and often humorous nature, typically tied to internet memes or cultural phenomena. Despite their origins, memecoins have attracted substantial capital flows and institutional attention, becoming a new paradigm for investing.
In 2024, memecoins experienced a surge in popularity, thanks in part to platforms like Pump.fun that made it easy to launch new tokens themed around specific memes, such as “dog tokens” or “AI tokens.” This growth has been driven by both retail and institutional investors who are drawn to the blend of viral meme culture with actual utility.
